I was headed back to Las Vegas from Palm Springs after spending a week in Southern California. The trip was meant to give me a respite from the long and cold winter in Fargo. It was a drive I had made a handful of times over the years so I wasn't expecting to unearth any new photographic inspiration, but when I saw the sign for the Joshua Tree exit, I couldn't resist. It was one place in the area I had never been. How could I pass up to opportunity to shoot an iconic National Park when it was only 30 miles away? As an artist, I am always looking for new inspiration and this was right up my alley! Little did I know, that that short distance would quickly turn my side trip into an entire afternoon/evening excursion.
I ventured off-road a bit and snapped a few pictures where the light was hitting the mountains the way I wanted before I even entered the park.
What did I just sign myself up for?
I didn't have very much time because the rental car was due at 7pm but made the decision to drive through the park to take advantage of at least a few quick photo opportunities. Looking forward to going back and fully experiencing Joshua Tree, next time with my husband in tow.
When I entered the park, I asked the ranger what route I should take back to Vegas. It was one of the best decisions I made all day because she also guided me through the Mojave Preserve, an especially amazing area to explore in the hours leading up to sunset.
By balancing my camera on the hood of my car, I was able to sneak in the frame several times. The desert highway was just so beautiful and it was not dangerous to get our of my car on the side of the road with virtually no traffic!
I felt so inspired. I couldn’t help but stop each time I got the urge along the way.
It was so wonderful to be able to pull the car over anytime I wanted without bothering anyone. I was guilt-free and it was great not to miss things I really wanted to shoot.
I think every photographer should make this journey solo at least once for several reasons. It is nice to have your eyes wide-open without distractions in addition to not irritating your travel partner. It is also quite therapeutic to sit back and allow your thoughts to wander as you take in the vast desert scenery to your favorite playlist.
This desert wonderland has so much to be inspired by from unique architecture, signage and random debris.
Inspiration Replenished
My creative spirit felt rejuvenated and I was warm inside when I reached Las Vegas that night. Literally. The long Fargo winter this year chilled me to the bone and left my skin pale, but the California sun restored my Vitamin D deficit and had a tremendously positive effect on my overall mood. My afternoon adventure through the desert was the perfect ending to a perfect trip. The Mojave gave me more inspiration than I ever could have asked for and I count this day among the best of my life!
You can see more of Lindsey’s work by visiting LindseyLaBarge.com, TheBohemianSophisticate.wordpress.com or her Instagram accounts @lindseylabargephotography @thebohemiansophisticate
